The watchword at AC Milan is to secure Champions League qualification as soon as possible. Then, further work on the squad can commence.
As La Gazzetta dello Sport (seen below) recall, Massimiliano Allegri has stressed multiple times that qualifying for the most important club competition ‘is vital for Italian teams’. Milan are naturally no exception, because the minimum €60m that the top four brings is a big boost to the accounts.
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In terms of player numbers, because the squad will need to be strengthened and expanded numerically, due to midweek fixtures and the physical and mental fatigue that travel will bring.
Renewals and signings
Before discussing the budget and transfer decisions for 2026-27, however, Milan want to ensure they finish in the top four, and they still have a long way to go in terms of points needed from the final 12 matchdays.
This is why there will be no distractions and the management doesn’t want the players to have other things to worry about. Having finalised Maignan’s contract renewal – which was the top priority because it expires on June 30th – there will be other operations.
Discussions with Tomori, Loftus-Cheek, Leao, Bartesaghi and Pulisic will be further explored in due course. We know full well that the intention of those directly involved, at least from the initial talks already held with their respective agents, is to remain at Milanello. This is a good starting point.
CEO Giorgio Furlani and the sporting director Igli Tare believe it won’t be a problem to postpone any possible signatures on extensions until late spring.
Salary cap
Participation in the Champions League will also loosen the salary ceiling, which currently stands at €7m net per year per player as a maximum, including bonuses. Leao and Maignan are the two who get that.
Allegri has already earmarked a fixed salary amount for Champions League qualification, and is tied to his contract until 2028 with an option for a further season, but Rabiot has also has a raise built in from his current €3.5m, significantly less than he earned at both Juventus and Marseille.
It’s clear that the club’s management have budgeted for a higher salary cap, along with revenue (thanks to the Champions League). And they would be happy to do so.
Save the money by not renewing the two Englishman. They are holding us back and need to be upgraded. I like Tomori but he simply isn’t good enough.